Supplements for Lowering Cholesterol

Cholesterol-lowering drugs are an effective way to get dangerously high levels down to a normal range, but there are those people who would like to treat their symptoms in a more natural way. A number of herbal and nutritional supplements have been shown to help reduce levels of LDL, or bad cholesterol, and increase HDL, or good cholesterol.

Flaxseed Products

Ground flaxseed and flaxseed oil both carry a variety of health benefits, says the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). Taking a flaxseed supplement or adding the oil or ground seeds to your diet can reduce high cholesterol.

Soy Products

NCCAM researchers have found that a daily diet that includes soy products may lower LDL levels, an important part of lowering overall cholesterol. Oral supplements are sold at health food stores. You can also add soy milk or soybeans to your diet.

Green Tea

Green tea is an antioxidant that can protect you from cancer as well as lowering your cholesterol. Many people prefer to drink green tea instead of taking oral supplements, but both forms are available.

Garlic

Cook with garlic to reap the benefits of lower cholesterol, says the Mayo Clinic. If you do not like the taste of garlic, or it upsets your stomach, choose an oral supplement instead.

Grape Seed Extract

NCCAM suggests grape seed extract as a natural way to control cholesterol levels. This extract improves blood flow and can lower both cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Warning

Discuss the possibilities of taking supplements with your doctor. Some nutritional and herbal supplements may interact with the drugs that you are already taking.